rkers by the force of repeated examples
of co-operative success; then, it will be practical and easy to organize
the farms and farm laborers of this Republic, with its army of the poor
and the unemployed of every class, into systems of co-operative farm
villages, or similar industrial associations.

"In this knowledge our people rejoice! They are filled with an unselfish
desire to spread the good news broadcast! Can you, my dear Fern! imagine
for them, a purpose in life more noble or more worthy?"

"No, my dear Fillmore! I cannot! So eloquently have you stated the
case, that the outlook for the future is glorious! How graphically you
have pictured the growing importance of this question of insurance! I am
amazed, and more deeply interested than ever! I never before dreamed it
possible, that the co-operative farm could offer so much defense against
the calamities of life, which grow out of the pinching pressure of
poverty!

"The scheme for providing for the members of the Mother's Club, and for
retiring co-operators at the age of fifty, meets my enthusiastic
approval! I am sure it will commend itself to the workers and thinkers
of the world! To me, it seems admirable, from every point of view!"

CHAPTER XXXV.

THE MOTHER'S CLUB.

"Mark it well, Fillmore! I have now reached a very important question.
What have you to tell me about stirpiculture, as a part of the
co-operative farm movement?"

"As a basis for the preliminary work, we have been following carefully,
the suggestions of your father, Fennimore Fenwick. You will remember, my
dear Fern, that they were to the effect, that the children of the farm,
should be the crowning glory of all its products; that it should be the
province of the corporation to provide for the children of the
co-operators, every advantage of favorable pre-natal conditions, birth,
unfoldment and education, that money could procure for the wealthy.
Therefore, that ideal environments for mothers and motherhood, must be
created and maintained.

"In order to carry out these epoch-making ideas, such of our matrons as
are willing to assume the conditions, responsibilities, and cares of
motherhood, are relieved from all farm work, at any time they may chose.
However, much of the work is so enjoyable, and affords so much pleasant
exercise, that many of them become volunteers. Meanwhile, they are paid
regular wages from our insurance fund. With this abundant leisure and
freedom from car